“‘See now, my Louis, you were too rough. You into him pitch like dam. So see him amiable.’ Then to me:—
“‘And you will marry Louise, who lofe you like old boots?”
“My other hand was free now. I tried to speak, and implored with my eyes for the gag to be removed.
“The baron removed it, and while doing so I resolved on a plan of operation.
“‘You will marry Louise, and give us the plates?’
“‘I will give you every satisfaction.’
“‘That is business,’ said Louis Orloff, coming forward. ‘First the plates; then you return with us to New York, and keep your promise to Louise. Why give us the trouble? I tell you frankly that the expense will be deducted from your share, and that you will be strictly watched in future. I should have cut your throat but for my promise to Louise. Now, where are the plates?’
“‘Look in the closet in the next room, rake out the coals and take what you find.’
“‘Good! Come, baron.’
“And they left me to operate on the coals. Springing up, I seized the revolver, darted to the door, and in a moment had locked them in.